2 Reading Guide

READING GUIDE

1. Develop a list of key anatomical structures in the oral and pharyngeal cavity that are related to swallowing. Include a brief description of the role that each structure plays in the healthy swallow. Practice drawing the key structures.

1. Develop a list of muscles important to swallowing. Indicate their (a) origin and insertion, (b) innervation, and (c) role in swallowing.

1. Describe the changes in anatomy across the lifespan. How is infant anatomy different from adult anatomy?  What is the impact of advanced age on anatomy?

1. Briefly describe how oral saliva is produced and why this is important in swallowing.

1. Describe how taste information is coded, interpreted, and received.

1. Describe and compare infant signs of feeding readiness versus distress (not ready). What cues may cause you to stop feeding?

1. Define infant oral reflexes important for swallowing. Include stimulus and response for each reflex. How does each reflex support feeding and swallowing in healthy infanta?

1. Discuss the interaction of respiration and swallowing. Include the phases of respiration.

1. Describe nutritive versus non-nutritive suck. Indicate the uses of each.

1. List events of oropharyngeal swallowing. Cluster them into an organized framework. Describe your framework. Indicate how the swallow events may change as a function of age.

1. Describe the activity of the velum throughout the swallow.

1. Describe the opening and closing of the UES throughout the swallow.

1. Describe aspects of airway protection before, during, and after the swallow.

1. List cranial nerves important for swallowing and indicate the role each one plays in the process.

1. Describe the swallow pattern generator.